Subaru Impreza Common Problems

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Owners report ongoing issues with the exterior lighting of the 2019 Subaru Impreza, primarily related to inadequate headlight illumination. Complaints frequently mention that headlights, particularly low beams, are extremely dim, significantly reducing visibility during night driving and in adverse weather conditions, with some reports noting near-crash experiences due to poor lighting. Many owners highlight that the recall repair parts have been unavailable for extended periods, with some waiting over a year and a half, leading to continued safety concerns. The mileage at which these issues become apparent varies, with some reports starting as low as 5,000 miles. Safety implications are underscored by mentions of almost causing accidents and difficulties in seeing road hazards and markings.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Owners report persistent issues with the exterior lighting of the 2018 Subaru Impreza, primarily related to a recall for non-compliant headlamp assemblies. Complaints frequently mention that the parts required for the recall repair have been unavailable for nearly two years, leaving many vehicles with dim headlights that fail to adequately illuminate the road. This lack of effective lighting poses a potential safety risk, particularly for nighttime driving. One incident involves a minor collision, suggesting that visibility issues could contribute to accidents. Buyers should be aware that while the recall is acknowledged, resolution has been delayed significantly, affecting the vehicle's lighting reliability.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Owners of the 2019 Subaru Impreza frequently report issues with windshield cracking, often occurring spontaneously without any apparent impact or damage. Common symptoms include cracks that start from the edges or bottom of the windshield and rapidly spread, impairing visibility. Multiple complaints mention these cracks appearing while the vehicle is parked or after minimal use, with some owners experiencing repeated occurrences. Additionally, some owners describe problems with the windshield cowl separating, potentially allowing water ingress or detachment while driving. These issues may pose safety risks due to impaired visibility and the potential for windshield failure.

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Owners of the 2020 Subaru Impreza frequently report issues with windshield cracking. Complaints commonly describe spontaneous cracks occurring while the vehicle is parked or at low speeds, often without any obvious impact or external cause. Windshield cracks are noted to originate from various points, including the lower center and top passenger side, and can spread significantly. Some owners mention repeated incidents of windshield damage, even from minor impacts like small gravel, suggesting a potential susceptibility of the glass. These issues are reported across a range of mileages, with some occurring shortly after purchase and others at higher mileages, such as 41,000 miles. While no crashes or injuries are directly reported, owners express concern about the integrity of the windshield in potential accidents.

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Owners of the 2018 Subaru Impreza frequently report issues with the windshield spontaneously cracking without any apparent cause or impact. Descriptions often include cracks forming while the vehicle is parked or after using the defroster or windshield wipers, with several owners noting the problem occurring multiple times and requiring costly replacements. Some complaints mention cracks appearing at low mileage or within the first few months of ownership. Safety concerns are highlighted by owners due to the potential for impaired visibility and the risk of the windshield failing during driving. This pattern of windshield issues may be relevant for potential buyers considering the durability and maintenance costs associated with this model.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2018 Subaru Impreza report several issues primarily related to the vehicle's windshield and electrical system. Multiple complaints describe windshields cracking unexpectedly, often without any apparent impact, with some owners noting this has occurred on several occasions. Additionally, there is a reported parasitic drain from the DCM module that affects the battery, requiring owners to use a battery tender. Complaints also highlight a recurring issue with the hood latch failing to secure properly, though the safety latch prevents the hood from fully opening. Mileage at which these issues occur varies, with one owner noting the hood latch problem at 95,000 miles. Safety implications are noted with a crash incident during towing due to a failure in the towing attachment point, emphasizing the need for careful inspection of these components.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners of the 2020 Subaru Impreza frequently report issues with the windshield, with numerous complaints describing cracks appearing spontaneously or from minor impacts. Symptoms typically include windshield cracks developing without apparent cause, often while the vehicle is parked or after minor road debris contact. Some owners note the cracks grow rapidly, causing visibility concerns. These issues are reported at various mileage levels, with some occurring under 12,000 miles. One complaint also mentions a safety-related incident where the hood flew open, damaging the windshield and obstructing the driver's view, though no injuries were reported. Buyers considering this model should be aware of the potential for frequent windshield replacements.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2019 Subaru Impreza frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving battery failures and ignition problems. Many complaints describe batteries dying unexpectedly, often after the vehicle has been parked for short periods, with some owners replacing the battery multiple times within a few years. The average mileage at which these battery issues occur varies, but some reports mention occurrences as early as 5,709 miles. Additionally, several owners experience problems with the ignition system, such as blown fuses and damaged ignition coils, sometimes linked to previous recall repairs. Safety implications include sudden loss of engine power and distractions from non-functional head units, which could pose risks during driving. These patterns suggest potential electrical vulnerabilities that used car buyers should be aware of.